Welcomed by a guard of honour made up of Hermès saddle artisans, the legendary horse and rider pairing, Hermès Ryan and Simon Delestre, entered the ring in what must surely have been one of the most moving laps of honour in their career. What better than the Saut Hermès to celebrate this 17-year-old champion, which pulled off the rare feat of winning the Grand Prix Hermès twice (2018 and 2019). It was in front of his home crowd, his owners, his carers and his fans, that his rider Simon Delestre paid him a glowing tribute prior to a final lap of the track by this small gelding with the long list of accolades.
“This is the very best place to pay homage to him, admitted a very emotional Simon Delestre. He’s been exceptional throughout his career. He’s been a warrior his whole life. Every time he entered the ring, he gave 300%. I tried to match his talent and bring him my A game. He’ll remain with me because he’s part of the family. He’s a legendary horse, one of the best in the history of equestrian sport.”
source: Press Release Saut Hermès - Ph. © Christiphe Tanière